How to Install and Start Playing OpenRCT2

OpenRCT2 is an open-source re-implementation of RollerCoaster Tycoon 2, and to play it you need two things: the OpenRCT2 software itself, and the game files from a legitimate copy of RollerCoaster Tycoon 2. Download the latest release from openrct2.io, point the installer or launcher at your existing RCT2 installation when prompted, then follow the official Getting Started Guide for setup and initial hints. The steps below walk through that process in order.

Before you start: what you actually need

OpenRCT2 does not include the original game's assets. It runs on top of the data files from RollerCoaster Tycoon 2, so you must already own a legitimate copy of the game (typically the Windows version, including the expansions if you want that content available).

The site's current download listings show:

• OpenRCT2 — Latest Release v0.5.5, Windows, 75.8 MiB, signed
• OpenLauncher v0.5.4, Windows, 44.4 MiB

Both have a "View all versions" link if you need a different build.

Step 1: Download OpenRCT2

Go to openrct2.io and choose one of the two download options on the home page:

• Download (Latest Release) — the main OpenRCT2 build. Use this if you just want to install and play.
• Download OpenLauncher — a separate launcher application. Use this if you want a launcher to manage and update your OpenRCT2 installation.

The release build is listed as signed, which means you can verify its authenticity before running it.

Step 2: Install and point it at your RCT2 files

Run the downloaded file and follow the installer. During setup, OpenRCT2 needs to locate your RollerCoaster Tycoon 2 installation so it can read the original game data. Have your RCT2 install path ready — if you bought the game digitally, that's wherever your store client placed it; if you have the disc version, install it first and note the folder.

Expected result: OpenRCT2 finishes setup with a valid path to the RCT2 data, and the game becomes launchable.

Step 3: Follow the official Getting Started Guide

The site provides a Getting Started Guide covering "Installation, setup & hints." Use it as your reference for the exact setup flow and for any initial configuration choices, since it reflects the current release rather than older instructions you may find elsewhere.

Step 4: Learn the controls with the user manual

Once installed, the site's User manual ("How to install and play OpenRCT2") covers basic operation and tips. This is the place to check when something in-game isn't obvious, rather than guessing at menus.

Common sticking points

• No RCT2 files: OpenRCT2 won't run without them. This is the most common blocker — sort out your legitimate copy first.
• Wrong install path: If setup can't find your RCT2 data, re-run it and point to the correct folder.
• Choosing between the two downloads: The main release is the straightforward path; OpenLauncher is for users who want a launcher managing the install.
• Version drift: Instructions written for older versions may not match v0.5.5 — prefer the official guide and manual on openrct2.io.

Quick answer

Download OpenRCT2 (or OpenLauncher) from openrct2.io, install it, point it at your legitimate RollerCoaster Tycoon 2 game files, then follow the Getting Started Guide and user manual to finish setup and learn the basics.